Wills and Probate / Estate Planning

In addition to representing individuals with their Estate Plan, we represent administrators of estates to assist with the probate process.

A “Will” is a document by which a person directs his or her estate, to be distributed upon death. Estate planning requires understanding the nature of a Last Will, how it works, what assets pass through a will, and a multitude of issues that arise in (frequently complicated) family dynamics.

A “Power of Attorney” is an instrument that grants someone authority to act as agent or attorney-in-fact. A “Durable Power of Attorney” remains in effect during the grantor’s incapacity.

A “Living Will” is an instrument, signed with the formalities necessary for a will, by which a person states their intention to refuse medical treatment.

During our consultation we will explain how a Last Will, Power of Attorney, and Living Will, can give you peace of mind, and how they can be prepared to reflect your personal choices.

The starting point of most estate plans is a Last Will and Testament. Whether simple or complex, a will allows you to control how your assets will be distributed when you pass away.

At Marder, Roberson & DeFelice Law Offices, LLC, in Ellington, Connecticut, we prepare wills and recommend additional estate planning documents that can supplement the will and ensure your goals and wishes are met. These documents include:

Durable power of attorney: This statutory document allows you to delegate legal decision-making power to another person. This person, typically a spouse or close relative, can then make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Appointment of Health Care Agent: Your appointment of a Health Care Representative provides for a trusted person or persons to make medical decisions, as well as financial decisions related to medical care, in the case of illness and/or incapacity.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) release: Signing a HIPAA release at the same time a durable power of attorney is established makes it easier to disseminate medical records when they are needed.

Living will: A living will and other advance health care directives spell out your preferences regarding medical treatment if you encounter a serious accident or illness that leaves you incapable of survival.

We work with a broad spectrum of clients, providing them with the peace of mind that comes from having a comprehensive estate plan in place.

If you created an estate plan more than five years ago, it may be time to revisit it to determine if it still accomplishes your objectives. The more current a will is, the less confusion there will be over its contents. Items left out of a will or not specifically addressed can cause contention between survivors and delay its administration.

Protecting your assets and ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of following your death begins with a phone call or email to our office.